Judge to lead university

Supreme Court of Appeal president Judge Lex Mpati has been appointed as Rhodes University's chancellor.

Mpati replaces professor Jakes Gerwel, who died late last year.

Though Mpati spends much of the year in Bloemfontein at the appeals court, he has deep roots in the Eastern Cape. He has retained his home in Grahamstown and spends as much time as possible there.

Rhodes vice-chancellor Saleem Badat said Judge Mpati had achieved much in life, despite his background.

"A humble man of great intellect and wonderful integrity, who personifies the Rhodes motto of strength, virtue, truth and the Rhodes slogan 'Where leaders learn', Judge Mpati is a superb role model for Rhodes students."

Mpati completed a BA degree in 1982 and an LLB in 1984. He worked as an attorney until 1989 and was heavily involved in human rights work. He was appointed to the bench in 1997 and has headed the Supreme Court Of Appeal since 2008.

Written by: Adrienne Carlisle

Picture credit: www.timeslive.co.za